Paver patios, walkways, and driveways bring timeless beauty and functionality to outdoor spaces. But nothing ruins that clean look faster than weeds poking through the joints or moss taking over in damp corners. Whether you’re dealing with a backyard patio in Queens or a front walkway in Brooklyn, keeping these spaces neat can be a challenge, especially with New York’s changing seasons.
The good news? With the right approach, you can prevent weeds and moss from growing between your pavers and enjoy a cleaner, longer-lasting surface.
Let’s break down the causes and the best ways to keep your pavers weed- and moss-free.
Why Do Weeds and Moss Grow Between Pavers?
Before we jump into prevention, it’s helpful to understand how weeds and moss end up between your pavers in the first place:
- Weeds don’t grow up from underneath. Instead, wind and birds bring seeds that land in the sand joints between pavers. If there’s moisture and sunlight, they start to grow.
- Moss thrives in shady, damp areas. Paver joints that stay wet or don’t get enough sun become perfect spots for moss to spread.
Knowing this, your goal is to remove the conditions weeds and moss love: moisture, organic debris, and loose, unsealed sand.
Simple Ways to Keep Weeds and Moss Away
Tired of unwanted green patches between your pavers? These easy, practical steps will help you maintain a clean, weed-free surface all year long.
1. Use Polymeric Sand to Fill Joints
What it is: Polymeric sand is a special blend of fine sand and binding agents.
Why it works: Once activated with water, it hardens in place, making it much harder for weed seeds to settle and grow.
How to apply:
- Sweep polymeric sand into the joints.
- Compact the surface.
- Mist lightly with water to activate the binder.
- Let it cure for 24–48 hours.
It creates a solid joint that resists erosion, deters weeds, and even helps prevent moss.
2. Regularly Sweep and Clean Your Pavers
Loose debris like leaves, dirt, and bird droppings can build up between your pavers and feed moss or provide a home for weed seeds.
Quick tips:
- Sweep once a week, especially in fall and spring.
- Use a leaf blower for faster cleanup.
- Wash your pavers with water occasionally to remove dust and grime.
A clean surface discourages organic buildup — and that means fewer weeds and less moss.
3. Improve Drainage and Sunlight Exposure
Moss loves shady, damp spots. If your paver area holds moisture or is always in shade, moss will keep coming back.
Solutions:
- Trim nearby trees or shrubs to let more sunlight in.
- Re-grade the surface if water tends to pool.
- Add drainage channels or gravel edges to promote runoff.
Better airflow and sunlight naturally reduce the moss problem.
4. Apply a Paver Sealer
Sealers form a protective layer over your pavers and joints.
Benefits:
- Blocks water from soaking into the joints (moss hates dry areas).
- Makes it harder for weed seeds to take hold.
- Keeps the surface looking clean and vibrant.
Choose a sealer based on your paver type — matte, wet-look, or natural finish — and reapply every 2–3 years for best results.
5. Use a Natural Weed and Moss Preventer
Skip harsh chemicals. For mild cases or routine prevention, try these natural methods:
White Vinegar Solution:
- Mix 1 part vinegar with 1 part water.
- Spray directly on weeds or moss in dry, sunny weather.
- Avoid spraying plants you want to keep.
Baking Soda:
- Sprinkle baking soda directly over mossy patches.
- Let it sit for a few days before brushing away.
Both are eco-friendly and effective with regular use.
6. Install Edge Restraints
Loose edges can cause sand joints to shift or wash out, leaving more space for weeds to grow.
Edge restraints:
- Keep pavers tightly packed.
- Help maintain the integrity of the sand joints.
- Prevent movement from foot traffic or weather changes.
Ask your installer to add sturdy plastic or metal edge restraints — or check your existing ones if you’re dealing with weed problems.
7. Pressure Wash Occasionally (But Carefully)
While this blog focuses on prevention, sometimes you need a reset. Pressure washing can clear existing weeds and moss, but only if used properly.
Tips:
- Use a fan tip, not a pinpoint jet.
- Hold the nozzle at an angle to avoid dislodging sand.
- Refill joints with polymeric sand after washing.
Done right, it gives your pavers a fresh, clean slate.
8. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance
A little seasonal effort can save you from bigger problems down the line.
Spring:
- Sweep regularly.
- Reseal if needed.
- Check for joint gaps or shifting pavers.
Fall:
- Remove fallen leaves quickly.
- Clear clogged drains.
- Trim trees and shrubs to increase sun exposure.
Consistent care means fewer weeds, less moss, and a surface that looks great all year long.
Conclusion
Weeds and moss between pavers may seem small, but they can lead to bigger issues like joint erosion, staining, and surface instability. Thankfully, with a mix of smart installation choices, routine cleaning, and natural treatments, you can keep your pavers looking sharp and weed-free — even through New York’s toughest seasons.
Whether you’re maintaining a paver walkway in Staten Island or a rooftop patio in Manhattan, these easy tips will keep your space beautiful and low-maintenance.
